The World Games 2010 Foundation, Inc., the organization responsible for planning, staging and conducting the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, announced that Cathy Rutter has been hired as the Director of Community and Volunteer Affairs.

Rutter joins the Foundation after more than 20 years at Churchill Downs, Inc., where she most recently served as vice president of operations services, helping to build and solidify ties with state, local and neighborhood leaders in communities where the company did business. She also provided special projects and community relations support to management teams at the company’s racetracks and off-track betting facilities. Her experience in working with community leaders is just one reason why Foundation CEO Jack Kelly said Rutter is ideal for the World Games 2010 Foundation.

“Cathy’s knowledge and background in addressing community needs and concerns is particularly appreciated as we plan for the 2010 Games,” said Kelly. “Many counties and cities throughout Central Kentucky and beyond are forming their own groups to plan for the Games, and Cathy will be an excellent go-to person for organizing that network.”

“This opportunity represents, for me, the culmination of both personal and professional goals in the world of equestrian sports, something that I have dedicated my life to. From my background in horseracing, it is like multiple Breeders’ Cups and Derby’s all rolled up into one larger-than-life event,” said Rutter. “It is a great opportunity for the state, the entire equine industry and the lucky staff members who get to work with individuals, groups and volunteers to make the event happen.”

In addition, Rutter will also head up all volunteer efforts for the Games. More than 5,000 volunteers will be needed in 2010.

Rutter earned a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Louisville, and holds a Corporate Community Relations Certificate from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College. She is a native of Louisville, KY.

The 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games, to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park, are the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the FEI, and are held every four years. The Games have never before been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines ever previously been held together at a single site—both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park. The 2010 Games are expected to have a statewide economic impact of $150 million. It is anticipated that more than 600,000 spectators will attend the 16-day competition.